Know Your Fighter: Quinlan Kelly

Full Name:
Quinlan Kelly

Age:
25

Where were you born:
Townsville, Australia

Where do you live:
Brisbane, Australia

Which gym do you train out of:
Integrated MMA HQ

Who are your coaches:
Adrian Pang

What belts or rankings do you currently possess as a martial artist:
Purple belt in BJJ

What sports or activities did you participate in growing up:
Being from North Queensland, I was like most kids my age — I lived and breathed Rugby League. All I wanted to be was JT, even had the headgear to match.

When did you begin to take MMA seriously as a hobby and then as a potential profession:
I had my first MMA fight at 16 and won by second-round TKO. From then on, being a professional fighter was all I ever wanted to be.

Favourite aspect of training or favourite session of the week, and why:
It’s got to be Thursday sparring night. It’s all good to drill and work on skills, but to me nothing beats having the openness and freedom to express yourself fully during sparring. Putting all the pieces together and testing your skills with real consequences is what I love.

What are your greatest strengths as an athlete or a fighter:
My ability to put guys away. I only need a small moment and I can change a fight quickly — there’s a reason all my wins have come by stoppage.

How would you describe your fighting style:
Dangerous. Ultimately, I’m looking to back you up, cut you off and find your chin. But I do like to initiate a shootout and back my speed and power to get it done.

What is your favourite sport and why:
Apart from MMA, it would have to be Rugby League.

Who is your favourite athlete:
Alexander Volkanovski — it’s so inspiring to see an Aussie at the pinnacle of the sport.

Who is your favourite combat sports athlete:
Still Volk.

What are your immediate and long term goals:
Immediately, I’m not looking past my next fight. It’s a very tough test and I can’t wait to prove what I can do. Long term, I want that Eternal welterweight belt around my waist.

When fans see your name on a fight poster, what should they expect:
If you like KOs, I’m your guy. I’m coming to put my opponents to sleep.

How do you see your upcoming fight playing out:
Expect fireworks. We both go forward and push the action — this is going to be a war.

A final message to any friends, family and supporters:
Truly appreciate the love and support of all the people behind me.

Instagram: @quinkelly2000

Watch Quinlan Kelly fight at Eternal MMA 98 on Saturday, September 13